Mercy University Media Studies Program Honors Excellence at 42nd Annual Quill Awards
Mercy University's Media Studies program celebrated student achievement and professional excellence at its 42nd Annual Quill Awards on April 14, recognizing the work of current students, distinguished alumni and industry leaders who continue to shape the media landscape.
Media Studies faculty presented Quill Awards to students in journalism, public relations and advertising, film and culture, video editing and radio production, theater performance and television production.
"Our Media Studies Program doesn't just teach communications — it empowers the storytellers, journalists and creative voices who will shape tomorrow's media landscape," Mercy University President Susan L. Parish said. "Here at Mercy University, students discover their unique voice and develop the skills to share it across every platform: from breaking news and compelling features to broadcast media, public relations and corporate communications."
This year's alumni recognition went to Nicole A. Acosta, a 2019 graduate now working as a staff writer for People Magazine, who received the Quill Award for Outstanding Alumna. Acosta, who concentrated in journalism during her time at Mercy, earned numerous accolades from the New York Press Association while writing for the student-led Impact news publication. Her work garnered awards in editorial writing, column writing and feature article writing. She also received Mercy's Excellence in Journalism Award and the Dot Adams Memorial Award, both given to only one student annually.
Since 2022, Acosta has been a staff writer for People Magazine. Her responsibilities include developing law enforcement sources, securing legal documents and attending court proceedings. She also covers red carpet premieres and interviews celebrities to generate content that drives website traffic and social media engagement.
Reflecting on her journey, Acosta told the audience she felt she had "come full circle."
"Not too long ago, I was sitting right here receiving awards for my time on the Impact," Acosta said. "It was here that I first realized how powerful storytelling could be, not just as writing but as a way to understand the world and give a voice to others."
She recalled a pivotal moment in Associate Professor Michael Perrotta's class that shaped her career path.
"I still remember the first time I was in Perrotta's class. I answered a news reporting question hesitantly from the back of the room very unsure of myself, but when I got it right, I was surprised and he gave me a little shout-out," Acosta said. "At that moment, something clicked. I knew this was something I wanted to pursue."
Acosta credited Associate Professor Perrotta with helping her develop both confidence and skill.
"Perrotta was very open and understanding. He helped me come out of my shell while also giving me the constructive criticism I needed to grow. He taught me to trust my instincts, and that experience really sparked something in me that I have carried ever since through my time at Mercy and into my career," she said.
She concluded with advice for current students: "At the heart of it all, what drives me is this: telling stories that matter, stories that inform, stories that connect us, and stories that can make someone feel a little bit less alone. To the students here tonight, ask questions, stay curious and trust that your voice matters."
Tony-winning producer and director David Elliott was presented with the Quill Award for Professional Achievement. Elliott has spent more than three decades producing, directing and managing award-winning theater in New York, London and across the United States. As co-director of Perry Street Theatricals, he produced and managed more than 25 productions on Broadway, Off-Broadway and in London's West End, collaborating on projects recognized with Tony, Drama Desk and OBIE awards.
As artistic director of The Cape Playhouse, Elliott led the historic theater's post-pandemic revival, delivering a critically acclaimed 2022 season and restoring its operations and artistic momentum. He recently served as executive producer for "The Shark Is Broken" at North Shore Music Theatre and the Martha's Vineyard Performing Arts Center.
Elliott quoted career advice from actor Tom Hanks.
"He said, 'Show up on time, know the text and have an idea.' That's it. Show up prepared, contribute to the work and have something to offer," Elliott said. "It sounds almost too simple, but it is rarer than you would think when people actually do all three."
He encouraged students to approach their work with intention and authenticity.
"No matter what it is that you're doing, if you can wake up each day and commit to it, do that thing with the intention, and honesty and integrity, you are already well on your way," Elliott said. "The cliché that if you do what you really love, it's not really work is true. So the first thing is find out what it is that you love, and say yes to it."
The evening's celebration of passion and dedication reflected the vision of Professor Louis J. Grasso, M.A., M.F.A., Media Studies program director, who has made the Quill Awards a cornerstone event for the program.
"I enjoy seeing the faculty, students and their families come together to celebrate these successes. And it's inspiring to others in the program," Grasso said. "I'm already thinking about next year's event!"
From left to right, Professor Grasso, David Elliott and Assistant Professor Marc Palmieri
Associate Professor Michael Perrotta and alumna Nicole Acosta